How FSSC 22000 Version 6 Promotes Recycled Packaging Materials in the Food Industry

Recycling is a key way for the food industry to conserve resources, lower greenhouse gas emissions and minimise waste. It also creates food safety and quality challenges, because recycled packaging may contain contaminants, allergens or foreign materials.

FSSC 22000 Version 6 is built from ISO 22000, the relevant prerequisite programme, and FSSC additional requirements. For food chain category I, the additional requirements expect the organisation to set criteria for recycled packaging used as a raw material, and to meet legal and customer requirements.

What a controlled approach includes

• Selecting and approving suppliers of recycled packaging materials.
• Verifying and validating safety and quality before use.
• Monitoring performance and effectiveness in production.
• Corrective and preventive action when control slips.
• Periodic review of the criteria and procedures.

Used this way, Version 6 gives packaging manufacturers a framework for recycled inputs that still protects food safety, quality and customer trust.